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ACT-Wazalendo, one of Tanzania’s leading opposition parties, has filed 51 lawsuits contesting the results and processes of the November 27, 2024, local government elections.
The elections, overseen by the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), have been criticized for alleged irregularities that the party claims undermined democracy and the rights of voters.
The lawsuits have been lodged in district courts across mainland Tanzania, including in Temeke, Lindi, Ilala, Momba, Mkuranga, Mafia, Kigoma, Tunduru, Tandahimba, Kilwa, and Kibiti. According to ACT-Wazalendo’s chief attorney, Mr. Omar Said Shaaban, the cases have reached the preliminary stages, with courts already issuing summonses to respondents for mentions and responses.
“The decision to file these lawsuits reflects our party’s commitment to fighting for democracy and the rights of citizens, which were undermined during the local government elections,” said Mr. Shaaban in a statement issued on January 6, 2025. He added that the lawsuits were part of a broader strategy to ensure electoral transparency and accountability.
The November elections saw the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party secure an overwhelming majority, winning approximately 99% of the contested seats. Opposition parties, including ACT-Wazalendo and Chadema, have raised serious concerns about the election’s integrity, alleging irregularities from the drafting of regulations to the announcement of results. These claims have fueled calls for a review of the electoral process to safeguard democratic principles.
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ACT-Wazalendo has mobilized legal teams to manage the lawsuits and is urging its supporters and democracy advocates to attend court sessions as a show of solidarity. The party has promised to provide updates on the proceedings, emphasizing its determination to hold authorities accountable and protect voters’ rights.
“This is not just about the results; it’s about ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected,” said Mr. Shaaban. “We will continue to fight for the democratic rights of all Tanzanians.”
The lawsuits come at a time of heightened political tensions in Tanzania, with opposition parties increasingly turning to legal channels to challenge what they perceive as unfair electoral practices. As the cases progress, they are expected to draw significant public and media attention, potentially shaping the conversation around future electoral reforms.
ACT-Wazalendo’s legal challenges serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for electoral fairness in Tanzania and the critical role of the judiciary in upholding democratic values. The outcomes of these cases could have far-reaching implications for the country’s political landscape and its commitment to transparent governance.
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